I agree with Kyle that one must pay attention to the details when working with Caramels. Out-crossing and mixing in the best codom genes for both vitality and appearance are both wise.

I find it curious that the most vehement kudos for the Ultramel come from those who DON'T work with them, NEVER worked with Caramels, or have FAILED working with Caramels(encountered a high kink %). I have heard from what I consider a reliable source that Ultras are inclined to kink. Is that true?? I DON'T WORK WITH THEM -- so my opinion is just speculation based on 2nd or 3rd hand info.

As far as Ultra combos go, the ONLY one that has been made public is the SPECTACULAR Camarillo -- which is half CARAMEL!!! The opinion that Ultras will make prettier combos is mere speculation. I will be mixing the Ultra gene into some stuff in the future -- I like the gene and feel they have great combo potential -- if they are mixed with the right gene for THEM. I am also GUESSING that time and breeding will show Caramels to more than hold their own against Ultramels in the combo department. That is just a GUESS!!!

ADULT morphs for me are the measure of a genes/gene combos beauty. Most every morph looks cool after their first shed. Fewer look as good or better at 800 grams. When you think about it quite a few are down right HIDEOUS when compared to their hatchling version. I'll take the best of the Caramels over the best of the Ultra as adults -- HANDS DOWN. I find their overall ADULT color, hues, and blushing superior to the Ultras more "opaque" color.

Lastly, I would magnify an important Caramel statistic that many/most posting opinions about demise of the Caramel gene ignore -- more than a few breeders working with Caramels are producing FEW(10% or less) to ZERO KINKED Caramels.